SURFACING
Amron Architectural wall panels. Duke Street, Norwich University.
KEEPING UP WITH THE NEXT GENERATIONarchitectural meshes (woven, expanded and perforated), powder coating is
The Instagram generation is leading the way on how to capture the beauty the most cost-effective way to apply of design. More so than ever, we are appreciating more eye-catching an almost unlimited range of colours. interiors for sharing on the gram. It’s simply the place to be to get noticed.Powder coating uses an electrostatic Visual content is particularly popular with architects and designers and charge to attract a fluidised powder the perfect place to share designs, materials and finished projects. Here, evenly across all surfaces of the mesh. Anthony Millington, Creative Director at Amron Architectural, explores The electrostatic charge holds the surface trends to look out for in 2023. pigmented powder until it passes AMRON ARCHITECTURAL
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s a leading metal mesh specialist for architecture and interior design, we are continuing to ensure our product offering is keeping up with the latest trends and innovations to influence choice, engage and inspire.
Creative mesh solutions
Metal mesh has a long tradition of outdoor use spanning hundreds of years. Over time, metal mesh has earned a reputation as a practical, durable yet surprisingly versatile product thanks in part to its uncanny ability to meet a wide range of specifications. With a variety of practical exterior applications, including vent panels, cages and baskets, it is little wonder that metal mesh was eventually introduced to the world of interiors. Its inherently superior performance properties led to its adoption as the go-to material for radiator grilles the world over. Fast forward to the present day, metal mesh is an invaluable material asset, its reach permeating every industry from agricultural to automotive. Yet, despite metal mesh’s popularity and prevalence in industrial markets, both architects and FC_ A JANUARY
interior designers alike continue to probe its potential for architectural and creative applications. Metal mesh works well as a safety element, including balustrade infill panels and radiator grilles, but also for decorative purposes like ceilings, wall panels and partitions. It is also a great solution for smaller applications like cabinets, bars and shop displays. Metal mesh is being seen as an alternative to replace bulky, opaque materials in functional areas of restaurants, lobbies and office spaces without making the space look smaller.
Cotou r and tex tu re
With an extensive range of metal mesh and working closely with customers, we are noticing a demand for more finishing options to help create more bespoke spaces – something we know from an architectural and interior design view that colour is still a strong focus, especially when it comes to the finishing of metal mesh. And, in particular, how the mesh is coloured without it corroding. Having researched a number of finish processes that work well with the commonly-used 28
through an oven, where it melts and adheres permanently to the mesh. After curing, the mesh has a colourful and durable coating that adds to the desired aesthetic of the project. To further educate ourselves and to deliver what our customers are asking for, we worked closely with powder coating specialist, Powdertech Corby to understand what the demand is for our metal mesh finishes. We collaborated with them on the launch of the Satellite range, which offers a metallic depth of colour, including shades of deep bronzes and golds, which give an ‘outof-this-world’ finish to the products. The collection provides a deep, long-lasting colour with a lustrous metallic sparkle and hard-wearing finish – meaning the colours are suitable for both interior and exterior applications. And, in turn, making them compatible with aluminium, mild steel, galvanised steel and cast metals. Not only is the range suitable for facades, signage and other applications alike, but they are also a great design solution in bringing texture to life – a trend that we are continuing to see evolve in applications such as wall features and other surfacing panels.